Barium Enema (BE)

Barium enema is an X-ray of large intestine, including the colon and rectum. The test may be single contrast which highlights the large intestine or double contrast which uses both barium and air to expand the colon.

This modality is used to evaluate problems with digestive function as well as screen for ulcers, tumors, inflammation of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum; hiatal hernias, scarring, digestive blockages, abnormalities of the muscular wall of GI tract. Other uses include diagnosis of the cause of symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, chest or abdominal pain, reflux, vomiting, severe indigestion or blood in stool (often an indication of internal GI bleeding).

A barium enema uses a unique form of X-Ray called fluoroscopy, and barium (or a water soluble iodinated) as a contrast material. Fluoroscopy uses a pulsing or continuous X-Ray beam to image the examined area on a fluorescents screen. In conjunction with the oral contrast material (barium in this case) the examined area because bright white and makes in possible for the physician to view the GI tract in motion.

This is a 30 to 60 minute outpatient procedure that is done in doctor’s office or hospital’s radiology department. Some fasting will be required, your medical team will help you with your unique needs. A radiology tech, radiologist and physician will all supervise and guide you through the enema.

You will be asked to remove some or all of your clothes, jewelry, dentures, eye wear, or any metal objects such as piercings.

An X-Ray image will be taken to ensure the bowel is clean. Next, the radiologist or tech will insert a lubricated enema tube into the rectum and insert a mix of barium and water into the colon. Sometimes air will also be inserted via the enema tube to help coat the lining of the colon.

The X-Ray imaging requires you to hold your breath for a few seconds to reduce the possibility of a blurred image. You may have to be repositioned in order for X-Ray to image the colon from several angles. Some X-Rays will not require this repositioning. Upon the completion of the exam you will be asked to wait to make sure all images have been captured.

Most of the barium and water will be expelled through the tube, but you will be asked to expel the remaining barium and air in the restroom.